Volunteer

Maybe you can’t afford a class.  Volunteering is one way of attaining new skills and heaven knows companies are looking to acquire cheap labour.  If you can’t find a position in your field, you can always volunteer.  For example, I’m considering teaching as a career, yet I don’t want to head off to teachers college and find out that teaching is not for me.  So my former high school teacher was nice enough to let me volunteer in his class.  Not only am I getting a taste of the teaching environment, but I’m also honing my presentation skills.  Sometimes I volunteer with the higher-needs children, so I’m getting lots of experience working with people who have disabilities.  I now have insight into that particular sector of the job market and the experience of working in a different environment.

As far as employment goes, volunteering is a great way to network.  If you perform admirably, someone in the organization may decide to hire you for an opening position or give you a glowing recommendation.  Potential employers see someone with volunteer experience as a person who’s altruistic and someone who’s willing to work hard with no monetary reward demonstrates a good work ethic.

Never Down And Out

Yes, not having a job can lead to boredom, restlessness and negative thinking.  But you cannot let that take over your life.  Think of this as a chance to increase your marketable skills and focus some time on yourself.  Yes, that’s right, you.  When was the last time you did something for you?  Well now’s a good time to start.